How Suboxone Treatment Works

Prescribed to individuals who are battling addictions to opioids, Suboxone is a partial opioid agonist that consists of a combination of buprenorphine and naloxone. Buprenorphine interacts with the same receptors in the brain that are typically activated by the abuse of opioids. Unlike opioids, buprenorphine will not cause patients to experience feelings of euphoria. Because of this, patients are able to play an active role in daily activities without impairment. Naloxone is an opioid antagonist (“opioid blocker”) that counteracts the negative effects that opioids have on the body. The use of Suboxone provides patients with relief from the physical symptoms of withdrawal while eliminating cravings for continued opioid use. Extensive clinical research has confirmed that the use of this medication, when taken as prescribed, can provide patients with the ability to successfully progress in treatment towards recovery.

The Effectiveness of Treatment

The Effectiveness of Suboxone Treatment

Suboxone will not cause patients to experience disruptions in their cognitive functioning, which allows individuals to play productive roles in their recovery as well as daily activities. Individuals who are prescribed Suboxone are able to successfully progress in treatment without interruption or delay.

Individuals who are interested in being prescribed Suboxone should first understand that use of this medication is not for everyone. There are multiple prescriptions available in treatment at Discovery House Comprehensive Treatment Center of Maine, which is why individuals should work closely with their treatment team in order to ensure that the appropriate medication is prescribed.

The Benefits of Treatment & Counseling

The Benefits of Suboxone Treatment & Counseling

The abuse of opioids can cause individuals to experience painful withdrawal symptoms once use of the substance has ceased. For many, knowing that withdrawal will occur often keeps them trapped in the dangerous cycle of opioid addiction as a way to avoid experiencing symptoms of withdrawal. The use of Suboxone, however, can assist patients in progressing in treatment without experiencing painful withdrawal symptoms which allows patients the opportunity to focus on their recovery.

Although the use of Suboxone can provide much-needed relief, patients must understand that this medication is not to be viewed as a “cure-all”. Lasting recovery requires treatment of both the physical and psychological components of a patient’s addictive behaviors. Discovery House Comprehensive Treatment Center of Maine proudly offers individual and group therapy as part of each patient’s comprehensive plan of treatment. Individual therapy provides patients with the opportunity to work one-on-one with a highly qualified counselor in order to address and process the underlying causes of their addiction. Once a patient understands why he or she turned to abuse opioids in the first place, preparing for a future that is substance-free becomes achievable. Group therapy sessions are counselor-led and bring patients together with other individuals who are also receiving treatment for addiction. When given the opportunity to work alongside their peers, patients are able to provide and receive support and encouragement which helps in the progression of treatment. Therapeutic interventions are designed to provide patients with the support, tools, and education that is required in order to successfully progress towards a life without opioid abuse.

How to Support Your Loved One During Medication Assisted Treatment: The family and friends of a patient who is receiving treatment for opioid addiction should also seek out treatment of their own. Discovery House Comprehensive Treatment Center of Maine promotes the use of individual therapy, family therapy, and support groups for the loved ones of our patients. The abuse of opioids affects everyone who is involved which requires treatment for all. The following are ways in which you can provide your loved one with the support that he or she requires as he or she progresses in treatment:

Educate yourself about Suboxone, as well as other treatment options, so that you are able to understand what your loved one is experiencing during treatment

Remind your loved one to attend all appointments

Ask your loved one how his or her therapy is progressing, how his or her medication is affecting him or her, etc.

Applaud your loved one on all successes, both large and small

Remember that lasting recovery takes time and may include some hurdles along the way. Continue to remain hopeful and share your optimism with your loved one especially during times of frustration.

Receive support of your own

How You Can Be Successful in a Medication Assisted Treatment Program: Choosing to receive treatment for opioid dependency is an extremely brave step. By actively playing a role in their own treatment, patients are able to productively progress towards recovery. Discovery House Comprehensive Treatment Center of Maine advises the following as ways for patients to succeed in treatment:

Follow all guidelines and adhere to any suggestions that given to you by your treatment provider

Attend all appointments in order to receive your prescription

Do not use opioids, alcohol, and/or other substances during the course of treatment

Play an active role in group therapy sessions

Openly communicate with your counselor during individual therapy sessions. He or she is there to help you achieve recovery, not to hinder your progress

Voice any issues or questions that may come up during the course of treatment. Discovery House Comprehensive Treatment Center of Maine ensures that patients receive the highest quality of care available

Side Effects

The Side Effects of Suboxone

Suboxone, like many medications, can cause patients to experience side effects. The following side effects have been noted:

Headache

Generalized pain

Nausea

Sleeplessness

Sweating

Low blood pressure

Numb mouth

Painful tongue

Blurred vision

Weakness

Infections

Chills

Constipation

Runny nose

Vomiting

Diarrhea

Lightheadedness

Dizziness

Sleepiness

Coordination problems

Irregular heartbeat

Back and abdominal pain

Fainting

Attention disturbances

Patients who experience side effects should immediately notify their treatment provider in order to ensure their safety during treatment. Adjustments to medications and changes can be made throughout the course of treatment if necessary.

If you or someone you love is struggling with an addiction to opioids, please contact Discovery House Comprehensive Treatment Center of Maine today to learn more about Suboxone as well as the other treatment options that we offer. We are here to assist you in achieving the substance-free life that you deserve to be enjoying.